Two teenagers have completed an epic cross-country off-road bike challenge to help pay for a roof for Coventry City Mission (CCM).

Michael Bassett and James Billington, both 17, pedalled a whopping 230 miles in just seven days from St Bees Beach in Cumbria to Robin Hood’s Bay in Whitby.

Their west-to-east Ride for a Roof challenge began on July 16 and ended on July 22. While the start and finish was at sea level, the overall climb during the journey was more than 28,000ft.

James’ mum Helen said she and his father Geoff are immensely proud of what the boys have achieved: “They have already raised over £11,000 so far, from an idea they came up with and put into action themselves. A fantastic achievement for two sixth form students.

Michael Bassett and James Billington, two 17 year olds who rode across the country from west to east to raise funds for Coventry City Mission

“A total of 230 miles covered with a combined elevation of 8,665 metres – almost as high as Everest.

“Not only have they have made a huge difference towards helping rebuild the roof, but they’ve also created memories for life, and we have no doubt this adventure will be a springboard for future projects.”

Michael’s parents Pam and Tim added: “We are very proud of his achievement in completing this ride with James, and especially pleased with the amount of donations received for a very worthy cause.

Their Ride for a Roof challenge raised more than £10,000 to replace the roof of the charity.

“We hope increased awareness about CCM will enable them to continue their good work for many years to come.

“We were impressed with their maturity and support of each other during the week and we were thrilled to be there to support them on their adventure.”

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Helen added: “Pam and Tim did a fabulous job tracking the boys en route – not sure if they know they might be getting roped in to something even more challenging at some point!”

Coventry City Mission works with some of the country’s most disadvantaged and vulnerable people. It runs a number of groups and activities including a food bank, groups for older people and a pay-what-you-can cafe which offers hot meals on the basis of a donation, or at no cost.

The boys at the Tan Hill Inn in the Yorkshire Dales, Britain's highest inn at 1,732ft

“They do amazing work and help thousands of people each year, but their building in Wood End is in desperate need of a new roof,” the pair’s blog explains.

“The roof is beyond repair and is in real need of replacing ASAP. The total cost of the work is £100,000.”

The boys at Robin Hood's Bay

Michael and James hoped to raise £10,000 towards the bill - but they smashed their target before even setting foot on a pedal.